Tag Archives: Global People Transitions

Storytime for Global Mobility Padawans – Ten Years of First Class Global Mobility Education


When I was working as a Global Mobility Leader at one of the big four consulting firms, I sometimes had a hard time explaining to my team members why they were not compensated at the same level as an HR Manager (or HR Business Partner as they used to be called back in the day). I told them about my vision of Global Mobility Managers reporting directly to the Head of Human Resources or even the Head of Business Development. I encouraged them to learn more and gain more profound knowledge and expertise to talk to line managers about international assignments through the business view (not just the talent development glasses). I was frustrated about the lack of recognition and […]

The Swiss Summer Slump – ​​A Ten Step Plan to Make the Most of the Summer Downtime

Summer Feeling

The Swiss Summer Slump is around the corner. From mid-July to mid-August, Switzerland seems to fall asleep. Despite the recession and terminations of contracts in the banking and IT sector, I expect the “Swiss Summer Slump” very soon. Decision-makers aren’t around to take interviews, and your chances of finding a job over the summer holidays are usually lower than in busy times. So, if you haven’t signed a contract by now, I bet you won’t sign one within the next four weeks. If you prove me wrong, I invite you to a Margherita and a Margarita (M&M). The challenge is on. With the start of international and Swiss school holidays, you notice fewer people on the trains, and motivation to […]

Five Tips for Rainbow Talent Moving to Zurich, Switzerland

Rainbow Talent

In a world that is becoming increasingly interconnected, the concept of a nomadic lifestyle is gaining popularity among individuals who identify as part of the rainbow talent spectrum. The rainbow talent, encompassing the LGBTQ+ community, brings diversity and unique perspectives to the global workforce. For those embracing a nomadic lifestyle, navigating the challenges and joys can be exhilarating. When we started our series for Rainbow Talent, we came across common challenges worldwide. We thought we would give you these five tips for Zurich, Switzerland. Please contact us for resources if you need the same guidance for other locations. Here are five tips to help rainbow talent thrive in their nomadic endeavors. What is a Nomadic Lifestyle? We consider it a […]

Navigating the Shadows: Understanding Expatriate Burnout and Trauma


Embarking on an expatriate journey is often portrayed as an exciting adventure, promising new experiences, cultures, and personal growth. However, beneath the surface of this exhilarating chapter in your life lies a lesser-explored aspect – the risk of expatriate burnout and trauma. When moving to the land of cheese and chocolate, many of us had an idea of a dream country, and I used to remember my favorite childhood cartoon series, “Heidi,” as a mental reference. During the transition phase, I soon realized that there was another reality about Switzerland.  The Swiss Reality This a reality you might not be familiar with when you listen to touristy advertisements, and it’s probably not the issues you had in mind (e.g., the […]

Digital Disruptors in Global Mobility

Digital Detox Day Digital Disruptors in Global Mobility

Rapid changes influence the traditional workforce in digital market trends, technology advancements, and connectivity. New attitudes toward work and careers evolve from the connected workforce generation. Disruptive technology already affects long-standing business models and established companies in all business areas. “Disruptive technology,” coined by Harvard Business School professor Clayton Christensen in 1995, is defined as “ when a new business model attracts an under-serviced market or revenue stream and grows until it supplants incumbent competitors. Technologies are not in themselves disruptive, but their application in a new business model can be” (Christensen subsequently refers to the same concept as “disruptive innovation”). Have you recently faced increased pressure to adapt the way you work to the new digital market trends and […]